Atlanta partners with Throne Labs to install public restrooms along Beltline
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A person scans the QR code on the new Throne Labs restroom at Cascade Springs Nature Preserve. Photo: Courtesy of Joshua Spruiel/Mayor's Office of Communications
Atlanta is partnering with a company to install public restrooms in several areas around the city.
Why it matters: Nothing is more stressful than trying to enjoy an outing in Atlanta while mentally mapping out the nearest bathroom.
The latest: Throne Labs smart restrooms were installed along the Beltline at Piedmont Park and Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark on the Eastside Trail; and along the Westside Trail at 171 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd. and 1097 Allene Ave.
- The bathrooms include sinks with running water, toilets that flush, free menstrual products and baby-changing stations.
Zoom in: Last week, Atlanta officials cut the ribbon on a Throne Lab bathroom installed at Cascade Springs Nature Preserve.
- Other locations slated to get restrooms include Isabel Gates Webster Park, Hardy Ivy Park, Central Park, Woodruff Park, John Calhoun Park, Walton Spring Park and Atlanta City Hall.
How it works: According to Throne Labs, users will be able to flush, use the faucet and exit using touchless technology.
- To gain access, you can either scan a QR code posted outside the unit, use the Throne Bathroom Network app or an entry card (for those without phones) or make a request via text messaging.
- A local team will be tasked with cleaning and maintenance.
- Twenty-one sensors are inside each unit to inform crews of motion and send alerts for fluid levels or when smoke or odors are detected.
- Those sensors will also alert the team when there's damage, when water is running low or when it's time to pump the unit.
The big picture: Atlanta has a lot of parks and public gathering places but a glaring lack of public restrooms.
What we're watching: Whether more will be installed, particularly on the northwest and southwest side of town.